Cork Chamber calls for 'urban evolution deals' during meeting with Chambers

Finance Minister Jack Chambers was urged during a visit to Cork City on Friday to give more targeted support in the upcoming budget to local authorities to allow them allocate resources that address their unique needs.

The Cork Chamber of Commerce met with Mr Chambers, who took over the portfolio from Cork South Central TD and now EU commissioner designate, Michael McGrath, earlier this summer, during a series of afternoon engagements.

Cork Chamber said it had also called on the Government to prioritise investment in skills and talent and promoting social and environmental sustainability. It identified as the key business priorities for Budget 25, which is to be announced on October 1, as housing, competitiveness, infrastructure investment, renewables and urban evolution.

Key Contributor

According to Cork Chamber CEO, Conor Healy, the Cork region was ‘a key contributor to the economy’ and offered ‘immense opportunity for further growth’.

“Our vision is to develop vibrant, inclusive cities that offer a wide range of amenities and are easily accessible to everyone. We urge the Government to implement Urban Evolution Deals, which would provide dedicated funding for local authorities, allowing them to allocate resources in ways that best address their unique needs,” said Mr Healy.

“This approach will empower cities to capitalise on local assets, foster sustainable growth, and transform city-centre living into a reality.”

Mr Healy added that he was looking forward to the Government addressing the rising burden of costs for business.

Mr Chambers said that he was “delighted” to engage with Cork Chamber during his visit to the county.

“We discussed a range of topics including areas of priority for the Chamber in Budget 2025 in terms of supporting business, growing enterprise and enhancing competitiveness,” he said.

“We also considered the longer-term needs of the city and the wider region, including infrastructure investment, the transition to renewable energy sources and upskilling in the workforce.”

Fruitful discussion

Chamber President Rob Horgan pointed out that Cork was Ireland’s fastest growing urban region; “With Budget 2025 fast approaching, we had a fruitful discussion regarding the key issues for businesses here in Cork and across the country.

“Cork — Ireland’s fastest growing city region — is at a turning point presently, with considerable population growth and economic development anticipated in the coming years.”